1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• The Book Thief takes place during one of the most horrific periods of human history. On balance, did you find this story more depressing or more uplifting? Why?
• Liesel turns to words as a source of strength and healing as she copes with the repeated traumas in her young life. Does Zusak’s story make a persuasive case that words really have this kind of power? Might The Book Thief itself have this kind of power for some readers?
• Have you encountered other stories that take place during World War II? How would you compare and contrast the messages that these different sources convey about war and humanity?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• On page 173, Death comments “I am haunted by humans.” What does this mean? What aspects of human behavior baffle and frustrate you?
• How would you describe Death’s personality? How did this personality impact your reaction to Death as a narrator? How does your reaction relate to your own feelings about human mortality?
• What is The Book Thief’s perspective on war? Do you agree or disagree with this perspective? Why?
• Rudy’s death teaches Liesel a sad lesson about appreciating people before it is too late.